Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
​
The basic principles of CBT are taken from the two theoretical backgrounds of cognitive psychology and behavioural psychology. Essentially, according to CBT principles, people develop patterns of thinking and behaviour in response to events that occur in their lives. These responses may initially be appropriate and functional in a particular context, however, may become problematic when they become a general, unconscious pattern of behaviour. CBT works by identifying and addressing how a person’s thoughts and behaviours interact to create problematic issues. The thinking behind CBT is that much of how a person feel depends on what they think and how they behave.
​
CBT is generally used as a short-term style of counselling (often between six and twenty sessions depending upon the client’s issue or needs) and it uses a practical and goal-oriented approach to help the client.
​
More information on CBT can be found on the Australian Association of Cognitive and Behaviour Therapy website: https://www.aacbt.org.au/what-is-cbt/